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Chemical Engineer Salary in the United States

How much does the average Chemical Engineer make in the United States?


The average salary for a Chemical Engineer in the United States is between $79,660 and $195,090 as of October 01, 2026. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the actual Chemical Engineer position you are looking for. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target. View the Cost of Living in Major Cities

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Base Salary

Core compensation

$79,660
$195,090
$137,380
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What is a Chemical Engineer?

A chemical engineer applies principles of chemistry, mathematics, biology, and physics to create, develop, and to manufacture numerous products and substances using chemical processes. Chemical engineers may work in labs or factories producing pharmaceutical, food, or fuel products. They also may be involved with research and development of new products and processes. Chemical engineers often work with engineers in other disciplines to analyze and resolve problems with existing products or systems.


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Chemical Engineer

What degree or educational requirements does a chemical engineer need?

Chemical engineers typically require a minimum of a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or chemical engineering technology. Courses in mathematics, advanced chemistry, and science are required as a foundation. A master's degree or Ph.D. is generally preferred or required for higher level positions. Many universities offer cooperative education or internship programs with companies or government agencies to provide hands-on experience.

What are the best schools offering chemical engineering programs?

Some universities offering strong chemical engineering programs are Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Georgia Institute of Technology, University of California-Berkeley, University of Texas -Austin, California Institute of Technology, Stanford University, University of Michigan Ann Arbor, University of Minnesota, University of Delaware, University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Are chemical engineers in demand?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook (BLS), employment of chemical engineers, in general, is projected to grow about 8 percent from 2016 to 2026. The demand for chemical engineering will be strong as new manufacturing technologies are developed and processes need to be optimized. Alternative fuels and medical and pharmaceutical industries will drive demand for chemical engineers.

What jobs are similar to or related to chemical engineer?

Mechanical engineer, biomedical engineer, materials scientists, petroleum engineers, and nuclear engineers are other jobs that may be closely related to chemical engineering.

Where can I find more information about chemical engineer training and career opportunities?

Explore these additional resources for more on chemical engineering professions.
American Society for Engineering Education
Technology Student Association
American Society of Chemical Engineers
American Institute of Chemical Engineers

What is the working environment for a chemical engineer?

Chemical Engineers usually work part of the time in an office setting, and part of the time in a lab or at a plant or other facility where chemical processes take place. Chemical engineers may work with or close to dangerous materials, requiring strict adherence to safety procedures and may be required to wear protective gear.

Chemical Engineer Jobs

Job Openings for Chemical Engineer
Electrical Instrumentation and Controls Engineer Apply

Synerfac Technical Staffing | NEW CASTLE , PA

Electrical, Instrumentation & Controls Engineer Location: New Castle, DE Job Type: Permanent, Full-time, Exempt Shift: Monday-Friday, flexible hours, Day S... more

2 days ago

Senior Associate Manufacturing Engineer Apply

L3Harris Technologies | CANOGA PARK , CA

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedi... more

2 days ago

Electrical Instrumentation and Controls Engineer Apply

Synerfac Technical Staffing | NEW CASTLE , PA

Electrical, Instrumentation & Controls Engineer Location: New Castle, DE Job Type: Permanent, Full-time, Exempt Shift: Monday-Friday, flexible hours, Day S... more

2 days ago

CHEMICAL PACKAGER Apply

Synerfac Technical Staffing | CLOVER , SC

A global specialty chemicals manufacturer focused on additives that improve surface properties such as wetting, dispersing, defoaming, and lubrication acro... more

4 days ago

Chemical Operator Apply

Synerfac Technical Staffing | BRIDGETON , NJ

Chemical Operator Responsibilities. Monitor and operate process equipment by recording temperatures, pressures, flow rates, and tank levels while maintaini... more

4 days ago

Chemical Operator Apply

Synerfac Technical Staffing | PITTSBURGH , PA

Our client in the Pittsburgh Area is seeking a Chemical Operator Duties: - Operate a variety of chemical process equipment, including: - Reaction systems -... more

4 days ago

Chemical Operator Apply

Synerfac Technical Staffing | GEORGETOWN , TX

Load and unload raw materials from trucks - Move and pour chemicals - Complete all paperwork including batch sheets, run sheets and shift reports - Inspect... more

4 days ago

CDL Apply

United Petroleum Transports (UPT) | LAKE CHARLES , LA

We are currently searching for for Local Chemical Company Drivers for our terminal in Houston, TX. Requirements. Minimum 22 Years of Age Hazmat and Tanker ... more

2 days ago

CDL Apply

United Petroleum Transports (UPT) | LAKE CHARLES , LA

We are currently searching for for Regional Chemical Company Drivers for our terminal in Houston, TX. Requirements. Minimum 22 Years of Age Hazmat and Tank... more

2 days ago